If you are around Raffles Place area, be sure to swing by the UOB Art Gallery to check out the ‘Women.Shoes.Freedom’ Exhibition by Benny Ong, which opens today in celebration of the International Women’s Day.
In this exhibition, the renowned artist and designer – whose linen and cashmere knitwear were hotly snapped by both Harrods and Bergdorf Goodman, and whose clientele include the late Princess Diana, Queen Noor of Jordan and the Duchess of Kent – shines the spotlight on the craftsmanship of master Laotian weavers, displaying his ongoing passion for their traditional weaving techniques.
Ong then incorporates them into a series of bold and captivating contemporary hand-woven art that explores the traditional and modern role of women. Notable imageries include that of an Ah Mah and the Peranakan woman.
Above: "Dandy 1", "Roller Coaster Dandy", "Peonies In A Cage 1","Tingkat Lamp 2", "Dance"
“This show is about exploring traditional views and the emancipation of the modern woman – and there was no shortage of inspiring narratives, from the recent US presidential elections to the Soong sisters. One group, in particular, that really resonated with the theme of this collection were breast cancer survivors. I found many pieces in this collection echoed the struggles and stigma of the disease, so intrinsically tied into womanhood.”
– Benny Ong
Above: "Peranakan Cinderella", "The Sisters Soong I"
An artwork of his to highlight is “The Sisters Soong I”, which pays homage to the strength and resilience of Chinese bound-feet women, and their eventual freedom from the shoes – much like the breast cancer survivors of today. As such, proceeds from the sale of this piece will be donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation.
Experience ‘Women.Shoes.Freedom’ today.
COUTURE TROOPERS MAGAZINE 